The Small Bird Collection
An ongoing collection of original colored pencil portraits made to invite a closer look at birds we might otherwise pass by. Each one depicts an individual bird and is signed, framed, and ready to hang.
About the Work
My work begins with close observation. I draw birds in colored pencil, studying feather structure, posture, light, and the field marks that distinguish one species from another. Yet my purpose is not simply to document a bird accurately. I want each subject to feel encountered—as an individual life worthy of attention.
My background as a science writer shapes the way I see and make art. I am interested in the adaptations, behaviors, migrations, and relationships to habitat held within a bird’s form. Knowledge does not diminish wonder; it gives us more to notice.
Many of my smaller portraits are created on translucent drafting film layered over fine art paper. Working on both sides of the film allows me to build color gradually, use subtractive techniques, and achieve fine detail within a softly atmospheric surface. Larger works may be drawn directly on artist-quality paper, but all are made slowly and deliberately by hand.
Through these portraits, I hope to invite a longer look—and curiosity about the life behind the feathers. Close attention can deepen connection, and connection can become care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Each artwork begins with close observation and research into the bird’s structure, plumage, behavior, and habitat. I build the image slowly through many layers of colored pencil, using fine marks, subtle shifts in color, and subtractive techniques to create depth and detail. Some small works are drawn on both sides of translucent drafting film and layered over fine-art paper, while works may be created directly on paper.
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I use professional-quality colored pencils, drafting film, and carefully selected archival fine-art papers, choosing materials with both the character of the individual piece and its longevity in mind. Because materials and techniques may vary between artworks, complete medium and substrate details are included with each listing.
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Yes! Each original artwork is sold framed and ready to display. Each frame is selected to complement and protect the artwork without competing with the bird itself and remains consistent in color and style for each collection. The listing for each original artwork also provides the complete framed dimensions and presentation details for that piece.
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Website and social media photographs and scans are chosen to represent the artwork as faithfully as possible. Colors and brightness may vary slightly with your screen settings and the lighting where the artwork is displayed.
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Yes. Every original artwork is accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity documenting its title, subject, medium, dimensions, and year of completion. The certificate provides a lasting record of the work and should remain with it if the artwork is ever gifted, inherited, or resold.
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How will my artwork be packaged and shipped?
Before an original leaves my studio, I give the artwork, frame, glazing, and hanging hardware a final inspection and prepare the shipment myself. The framed piece is placed in a black cotton muslin dust bag for future storage, then carefully secured inside a reinforced artwork shipping box with additional protection around the glazing and corners.
Each original is accompanied by its signed certificate of authenticity, care information, and a Field Note offering a closer look at the bird’s life, behavior, or habitat. I consider packaging part of the artwork’s presentation, and every detail is handled with care.
Shipping within the United States
Complimentary shipping is included with original artwork delivered within the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, and includes tracking.
I will email tracking information when your artwork ships so you can follow the carrier’s estimated delivery date. If receiving the package at home is inconvenient, pickup from a secure carrier location may be arranged when available.
Signature confirmation is available on request. If you would prefer a signature or need to discuss a secure delivery arrangement, email ellen [at] ellenbrownarts.com promptly after ordering, before your artwork ships. Please contact me for shipping rates to Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories.
International Shipping
International collectors are invited to contact me before purchasing. Shipping availability, costs, insurance coverage, customs requirements, and applicable return rights vary by destination and will be confirmed before an international order is accepted.
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If the shipping box appears damaged, please photograph it before opening whenever possible and retain the box, packing materials, and shipping label. Contact me as soon as possible—ideally within 48 hours of delivery—and I will personally handle the carrier claim and next steps.
Depending on the nature of the damage, I will work with you to arrange appropriate repair or reframing, return the artwork for a full refund, or reach another mutually agreed-upon resolution. If a shipment is confirmed lost in transit, the full purchase amount, including applicable taxes and shipping charges, will be refunded to the original payment method.
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Because each original is a one-of-a-kind artwork, all original artwork sales are final. I make every effort to represent each piece accurately through detailed photographs, descriptions, dimensions, and presentation information. If you have questions or would like additional images before purchasing, please contact me—I want you to feel confident in your selection.
Returns and exchanges are not accepted for a change of mind. This policy does not affect your protection if the artwork is lost in transit, arrives damaged, or differs materially from its description.
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Display your artwork indoors, away from direct sunlight, excessive humidity, and significant changes in temperature. Avoid touching the artwork or removing it from its frame. To clean the glazing, use a clean, soft cloth and never spray cleaner directly onto the framed piece. Keep the accompanying dust bag and certificate of authenticity in a clean, dry place for future storage or transport.
Still looking for your bird?
Small Birds is a lifelong, evolving series, with new bird portraits appearing regularly.
Tell me which bird you would like to encounter here in the future—or inquire about commissioning an original portrait created especially for you.